The Student Committee of the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada (SRCP) has started the Rural and Isolated Support Endeavor (RISE).
RISE was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide emotional support and companionship to patients living in rural areas across Canada who are experiencing increased isolation due to social distancing restrictions.
The initiative matches rural patients that may benefit from additional social contact with medical students from across Canada who will provide weekly phone calls. For example, patients who are no longer able to visit with family, or those with impaired immune systems unable to leave their homes may be experiencing increased isolation compared to others, especially if they are living in rural areas.
Volunteers will not provide medical advice or arrange medical appointments but will provide emotional support and social connection for those who are feeling isolated.
Physicians who are interested can contact the SRCP Student Committee at rise.srpc@gmail.com.